Ontario To Require Proof of Vaccination
As of September 22, 2021, Ontarians will need to be fully vaccinated (two doses plus 14 days) and provide their proof of vaccination along with photo ID to access certain public settings and facilities.
The Ontario Government has indicated that as of September 22, valid proof of vaccination will include either the paper or PDF vaccine receipt (received following 2nd shot) with an government-issued photo ID. Approximately one month later, the Ontario Government will then be launching an enhanced digital vaccine receipt for all to use which will feature an unique QR code, which is safe and more secure.
How This Will Impact Your Golf Facility
These mandatory requirements would NOT apply to outdoor settings where the risk of transmission is lower.
This approach focuses on higher-risk indoor public settings where face coverings cannot always be worn. The mask mandate does not apply to golf carts. Face coverings in indoor public settings and physical distancing requirements remain in place at this time.
| Outdoor Golf Course & Driving Ranges | Proof of vaccination is NOT required for customer use. |
| Indoor Golf Simulators & Driving Ranges | Proof of vaccination is required for customer use. |
| Indoor Dining – Restaurants, Bars & Lounges | Proof of vaccination is required for customer access. |
| Outdoor Patio Dining | Proof of vaccination is NOT required for customer access. |
| Indoor Meeting & Event Spaces | Proof of vaccination is required for all attendees. |
| Sports & Recreation Facilities | Proof of vaccination is required for all participants at all indoor facilities used for sports and fitness activities and personal fitness training, such as gyms, fitness and recreational facilities with the exception of youth recreational sport. |
| Wedding & Funeral Receptions | Special Note - For the period between September 22 and October 12, 2021, it is intended that people attending wedding or funeral receptions at meeting or event spaces will be able to provide a negative rapid antigen COVID-19 test from no more than 48 hours before the event as an alternative to proof of vaccination. These rapid antigen tests would have to be privately purchased. |
Special Exemptions to Proof of Vaccinations
The Ontario Government has highlighted some specific exemptions, including:
- Individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical exemptions will be permitted entry with a doctor’s note until recognized medical exemptions can be integrated as part of a digital vaccine certificate.
- Children who are 11 years of age and younger and unable to be vaccinated will also be exempted from these requirements.
Establishing a Vaccination Policy for your Workplace
To help reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, public health authorities across Ontario are recommending employers establish a vaccination policy. Employers have an obligation to maintain a safe work environment for their workers. To help reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, a workplace vaccination policy is an important measure employers should implement to protect their workers and the public. Click here to see information from Toronto Public Health Unit on establishing a vaccination policy for your workplace.
Click here for the full details released by the Ontario Government on September 1st.
We will continue to send you updates as more information becomes available.
Thank you and do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
* content courtesy of NGCOA